Cleansers are one of the first things that touch our face during skincare routines, and they are typically the most disruptive to our skin's biological processes.
Perhaps it's the curse of the human condition, but our constant interference with natural biological processes is at the root cause of much disruption in this world. Unfortunately, skincare practices are often no different. How else would big business beauty brands be able to sell you so many products if they didn't create some issues for you along the way?!
My philosophy is always to support the skin's natural function, which is to serve as a barrier & filter between the outside world and our bodies. I've noticed time and time again that cleansing tends to be the most disruptive component in a skincare routine. That squeaky clean feeling after cleansing is a sign of disrupted skin- we absolutely need to retain the oils our body worked so hard to produce, and we don't need to kill off all of the bacteria on our skin. Unless there is a particular acneic breakout from bacteria colonies (which is a blog for another day), a gentle oil cleansing approach can have a much more supportive role in our routines!
How does it work?
Oil cleansing is exactly as it sounds, cleansing with oil! Applied oil bonds to excess sebum, dead skin and build up on your skin; this breaks down pore clogging congestion. When you remove the applied oil, along goes the rest. For damaged skin, oil also acts as a barrier to protect skin, while maintaining moisture and promoting softness.
Cleansing oils can also double as makeup remover, even on tough to remove waterproof mascaras.
Skin doesn't need to be scrubbed down until its squeaky clean, especially not daily. From a holistic skincare perspective, this is just about the worst thing you can do for your skin! You can learn more in this blog here.
Applied oil, such as our newest product Verdant Renewal, melts congestion and removes build up without disrupting the necessary bacteria.
Many conventional facial cleansers are overly drying, therefore disruptive to skin's microbiome & acid mantle. If you aren't sure if your facial cleanser is too drying, try this:
Wash face as usual with your cleanser. Allow it to air dry. Crack a big smile. If skin feels taut, itchy, dry or uncomfortable- it might be time to try a more moisturizing cleanser.
How to oil cleanse
Apply a quarter size amount of oil to the palm of clean hands, rub together and massage directly onto facial skin. Use finger tips to guide oil in a circular motion, focusing on areas of concern.
Use a damp, clean washcloth to gently remove excess oil from skin. Do not use excessive pressure or scrub at skin.
If skin feels exceptionally dry prior to cleansing, you can remove oil with warm water.
Complete routine as usual!
Double oil cleansing
Follow the steps above, twice!
or
Use in conjunction with a traditional cleanser. I prefer to use oil cleansing as my first step in double oil cleansing with another cleanser.
Try our newest oil cleanser, Verdant Renewal, here!
Remember
Oil cleansing is a far cry from typical harsh, drying cleansers. As a result, it can instigate cell turnover, thus resulting in potential breakouts.This is normalAny new addition or change to a skincare typically requires two weeks to see results. If you see an immediate adverse reaction, such as redness, burning or itching, discontinue any practice or product immediately. However, oftentimes skin will break out before it resolves. Adapting to new practices takes time, especially for damaged skin barriers!